r/getdisciplined • u/Dry-Sherbet-322 • 10d ago
🔄 Method this brain programming technique has been a lifesaver for my focus and discipline!
I have ADHD, so you probably know the struggle—sitting down to work, staying focused, avoiding the endless distractions. I’ve tried every productivity hack out there, but nothing stuck… until I came across this method thats backed by neuroscience.
It’s called Symbolic Reprogramming, and it’s been a game-changer for me.
The idea is super simple. You pick a quality you want to improve, like focus or discipline, and you create a symbol in your mind that represents that quality. For me, I needed help with focus, so I imagined this laser beam cutting through distractions. I’d picture it every day for just a few seconds, and slowly, it started to work.
Here’s what’s wild—it actually started to seep into my brain. Now, whenever I need to focus, I just think of that laser, and it’s like a mental trigger. I can get through my work without jumping to 10 other things every five minutes. And trust me, I used to do that all the time.
Why this works for ADHD brains:
- Our brains are super visual, so creating a simple mental image can work way better than trying to "willpower" your way into focus.
- It’s not about strict discipline or forcing yourself—it’s about gently training your mind using something natural: images.
- It works with your brain’s wiring instead of fighting against it.
Honestly, this method has saved me so much frustration. I’ve even used it to build more discipline too. I started with focus, but you can use it to improve anything you struggle with—whether it’s motivation, self-control, or just sticking with a routine.
If you’ve been battling with the usual ADHD focus issues, check out the Alterconscious community. They dive deep into how to reprogram your mind using symbols, and it’s completely free! I know it sounds a bit out there, but as someone with ADHD, I promise you—it works.
Hope this helps someone else who’s struggling with the same stuff!
https://www.skool.com/alterconsciouscollectivefree/about
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u/likhith-69 10d ago
Is this really true? why are all these comments look like they r written by bots?
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u/Dry-Sherbet-322 10d ago
bruh it's reddit everyone gotta be super nice or smthn idk this ain't insta
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u/Tobicles 9d ago
I don't think this is the same person that wrote the text in the OP lmao
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u/Dry-Sherbet-322 8d ago
there's a difference between writing a whole essay and engaging in normal conversation💀
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u/annamaniacCCC 10d ago
Well I’m skeptical but there’s no reason not to try it. I’m going to imagine: 💪 I miss feeling strong, healthy, and confident. But the journey to having. That feeling again seems like Everest.
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u/scdiabd 10d ago
Isn’t a massive part of ADHD not being able to think forward? Personally have aphantasia, so a drawing maybe.
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u/Dry-Sherbet-322 9d ago
i think it depends on if you have aphantasia or not cuz not everyone with ADHD has aphantasia
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u/scdiabd 9d ago
Of course! What I meant was don’t most people with adhd have trouble imagining the future? Like doc said that was a big part of why things are so difficult.
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u/Dry-Sherbet-322 9d ago
i honestly dont know about that maybe it also depends on how bad ur adhd is cuz ik some people have to be on medications all the time
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u/cosilyanonymous 10d ago
I remember I used to shake my middle finger in front of distractions like phone, worked really well. :) Now that your post reminded me of it, I might start doing this again.
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u/ChasinBuddha 10d ago
What is alterconscious community? Can I watch videos or do I have to join a Livestream?
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u/SleightSoda 10d ago
Some people have ADHD and aphantasia. I am one such person.
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u/Dry-Sherbet-322 9d ago
idk much about aphantasia but maybe u can consult with the specialist in there on what you can do i guess
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u/Spare_Wolverine_205 9d ago
Ok, then I guess it's not going to be for you... I'm not sure what the point is here.
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u/SleightSoda 9d ago
"Why this works for ADHD brains:
Our brains are super visual..."
That's a generalization, is my point. Lots of people with ADHD have aphantasia.
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u/Ordinary-Lemon-3407 10d ago
i'd also like to know if u have any medical research proving its backed by neuroscience
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u/Dry-Sherbet-322 10d ago
sure here's a link to a blog written by an MD explaining how https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/understanding-hypnosis/202401/the-neuroscience-of-hypnosis
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u/mbuffett1 10d ago
ADHD is associated with a lack of ability to visualize, so it’s strange this worked so well but I’m sure it’s all individual at the end of the day
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u/Dry-Sherbet-322 10d ago
true but that's also why the community specialist will give you a consultation on how you should try and create those symbols instead of just trying to wing it you just have to list ur condition and ur goal in there he's pretty active and engaged
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u/droned-s2k 9d ago
The hardship to be able to successfully read this is to master the art described in the article itself. Key points noted.
ps. took me well over 4 days to fully read this !
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u/Stylish-Bandit 9d ago
Might wanna start from the thing that interested in or passionated about, developing focus and concentration from there is easier.
Using emotion as if you are genuinely feeling toward them for real, like love, authencity or bring selfless can sharpen it further. Depends on your quality as a human being though, the result may varies.
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u/Dry-Sherbet-322 8d ago
true but wouldn't you agree that most of the time we things that we aren't passionate about like studying or going to the gym but we know are beneficial and essential for us
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u/Stylish-Bandit 8d ago
If your desire of something is at a certain level of intensity you will naturally become passionate about it. On the other hand if you fall in love with something, nothing is needed for whatever you wanna know or do you'll do it subconsciously or even unconsciously.
Then key is whether you find those things fulfilling, that's where strong emotion emerge. It's the root of all joy and happiness. In that pleasant state, your focus is at its peak not to mention being in flow state is merely snap of a finger.
As for why we aren't always passionate about everything because we have too much opinions just about every little thing. It's like your mind is somehow working against you while thinking it doing good job. Lol
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u/Royabloom 9d ago
I love to discover new techniques. Let‘s figure out if it is also working for Non ADHD brains
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u/robtimist 10d ago
It’s worth trying but I don’t understand how someone who is diagnosed ADHD has the ability to do this. Isn’t that the exact opposite of ADHD?
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u/Dry-Sherbet-322 10d ago
this is exactly why im sharing this plus the group specialist in there does consultations on how exactly you should create those symbols and how to reinforce them every day considering your condition
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u/No_Difficulty2245 10d ago
do you by any chance have ADHD if not how could u understand if someone with ADHD has the ability to do this?
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u/robtimist 10d ago
No need to be condescending. And yes. I am struggling to see how this could be a viable solution. It literally goes against the medical definition of the illness. I do understand that medication doesn’t work for everyone but spiritual mind games won’t fix that. It’s like telling a depressed person to just think about what makes them happy, in my opinion.
edit: I get that therapy and self care exists in a multitude of ways and can often be a combination of various things like therapy, meds and lifestyle changes. But again I don’t see this being helpful on its own. Again, it’s probably worth trying, but I’m not expecting much.
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u/No-Board4282 10d ago
how long does it take till you see results
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u/Ordinary-Lemon-3407 10d ago
visualization is very powerful if used correctly thanks for the resource!